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"Welcome to Mario Kart. Select your player," is the greeting all '80s and '90s babies have come to know and love. Though kids today might not necessarily be familiar with Mario and Luigi, the iconic Italian video game brothers who drove their race cars straight into our hearts, you have the chance to relive a part of your childhood—if you act fast.
For those who didn't celebrate Mario Day on Mar 10 (the abbreviated date looks like "Mario," if you wondering how the celebration came to be), you still have an opportunity to pay tribute to your favorite fictional fella. Don't let anything stand in your way—not even Bowser.
Nintendo and Google joined forces beginning Mar 10 to allow your navigation indicator on Google Maps to turn into your favorite mustache-sporting Italian race car driver. When you're stuck on the BQE and won't reach your destination anywhere in the foreseeable future, you at least have a buddy to accompany you while the kids are in the back seat complaining that they're bored.
Act quickly! Mario's week-long debut will speed off on Mar 17, so if you're going to enable him on Google Maps, you better do so ASAP. In order not to miss out on the nostalgia-inducing feature, you'll have to update your Google Maps app. From there, click on the yellow “?” icon found on the bottom right of the app and you'll receive a Mario Time prompt.
As our famous friend would say, "Let's-a go!"
Your kiddos might give you some side-eye when you reminisce about Mario, but th

Ever wonder what it's like to star in a NYC show? Now, you and your kiddos can get an exclusive taste of theater life thanks to Blue Man Group's VIP experience.
The iconic musicians will offer a 20-minute pre-show that allows you to step inside their shoes. If you opt in for this special offer, you'll be doing far more than enjoying the show. As VIP, you'll become an honorary band member and learn a drum pattern that the group actually performs. Even better? You'll get the chance to play alongside one of the members.
"This experience takes you deeper into the rhythms and soul of the show,” Josh Matthews, resident music director for the Astor Place Theatre Production of Blue Man Group, said in a statement. “If you’ve ever wanted to be in a band, even for just one night, or jam with some of the most rockin’ and brilliant musicians in New York City.”
It's certainly a blast, but keep in mind that prices run fairly high. Only four VIP “Jam with the Band” seats are available per performance, and they cost $250 each. Each purchase includes a show ticket, an honorary VIP band member credential and a front row look at all the action.
To learn how to join the group—even if it's just for a night—click here. Grab tickets here.
Looking for more ways to enjoy the NYC theater scene? Snag tickets to one of these Broadway shows for kids or Off-Broadway shows for kids. Have a budding actor or actress on your hands? Sign them up for one of these acting classes for kids.

Parents can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that New York City's Department of Education is planning to further assess the issue of bullying in schools.
A class action lawsuit two years ago suggested that schools were not properly handling bullying situations, which ultimately lead to violence and a lack of safety in the halls. Now, a more vigorous plan is set to take effect thanks to the settlement's provisions, according to Patch.
So what can parents expect to see change in their children's school? DOE members will have to report an incident they hear or read about within one school day. From there, an investigation must be conducted within 10 days. The DOE is also required to assemble a team that trains school staff to prevent, report and investigate bullying cases that arise.
Moms and dads will have a more active role in protecting their children as well, thanks to the electronic reporting system debuting in 2019 that allows them to submit reports virtually.
Though the age-old dilemma is something that will never entirely disappear, it seems that there are more efforts in place to ease the tension and keep students' experiences in the classroom positive.
"The DOE has initiated numerous reforms to strengthen its anti-bullying programs to ensure safe and inclusive learning environments in every school building," a spokesman for the city Law Department said in a statement, according to Patch. "This settlement reflects and expands on these initiatives in the be

We hoped the news wasn't true, but as it turns out, Toys “R” Us is set to close or sell its 800+ stores across the country, according to CNBC.
Earlier this year, the beloved kids' company had filed for bankruptcy and began liquidating 180 locations nationwide. However, there was a glimmer of hope that a comeback could be possible, and we certainly had our fingers crossed.
"The reinvention of our brands requires that we make tough decisions about our priorities and focus," Chairman and Chief Executive Officer David Brandon wrote in a statement in early 2018. "We also intend to convert a number of locations into co-branded Toys “R” Us and Babies “R” Us stores. The actions we are taking are necessary to give us the best chance to emerge from our bankruptcy proceedings as a more viable and competitive company."
CNBC further reports that roughly 200 stores could still be saved, should the company find a buyer. It's certainly not the same, but we are trying to remain positive that the iconic brand won't disappear from our lives completely.
Geoffrey, we love you so and cannot help but think back to the good 'ol days. What was better than picking out a new stuffed animal or taking a spin on the new Razor scooter that just debuted? It's difficult to think that children might not share that experience, but we'll have to roll with the punches.
Don’t grab the tissues yet. Focus your attention on other awesome activities, such as our list of things to do in spring, visit a few

Even the littlest members of the family need guidance in the health and wellness department.
Fitbit Ace is looking to get the whole crew involved in a fitness routine thanks to its latest product, Fitbit Ace, which is designed for children 8 and up. While youngsters will love its bright purple and blue hues, waterproof features and five-day battery life, parents will appreciate the device's efforts to track steps and inspire a new wellness routine.
“It can be hard to start and stick to good habits, and we know from our community that network effects are key to getting and keeping people motivated, " CEO and Co-founder of Fitbit James Park said in a statement. "By bringing that experience to families, it can make healthier habits feel more achievable by making it fun and engaging."
With the warm weather approaching, it's the perfect time to set new health goals for everyone, and Fitbit's kiddie bracelet is here to help.
Photograph: Courtesy Fitbit Ace
Need the kiddos to move around a bit after they finish their homework? Set a reminder. Want to make sure they're getting a good night's sleep? No problem. Need a little family competition? Set challenges for everyone. It might be a simple accessory, but its capabilities are pretty extensive.
Fitbit Ace is currently available for pre-sale online for $99.95 and will hit the shelves of major retailers later this year.
"We are excited by the opportunity to enable parents to help set their kids on a path to buildi

If your favorite summer memories include exploring hiking trails and getting in tune with nature, now is the time to relive those moments.
NYC Parks just released a list of seasonal positions that allow you to get involved with your outdoors and give NYC children a summer they won't forget. The list is lengthy, and you'll certainly be able to find a role that is near and dear to your heart.
For those who could get lost in the woods for hours on end, why not consider the role of Nature Center Adventure Guide? You'll be able to enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of NYC while providing kiddos with fun environmental education and outdoor activities. We might be living in the largest city in the world, but we cannot forget to expose youngsters to its beautiful surrounding landscapes.
With those landscapes comes a slew of creatures you won't necessarily find on Broadway. Thanks to the Wildlife Area Associate role, you'll be able to work alongside NYC Parks’ Wildlife Unit to assist with duties at the Rockaway Beach Endangered Species Nesting Area, coordinate community outreach programs and monitor and protect the species residing in the park, among other responsibilities.
For the traditionalists, there is also the option to become a camp counselor, lifeguard or swim instructor. New Yorkers take their time off very seriously, and they want to ensure that their children are making the most out of their summer in the city—even if that means being surrounded by greenery in

In a planned effort across the United States, students walked out of their classrooms at 10am today in unified protest of recent school shootings and in support of tighter gun laws that would potentially help to prevent further school tragedies.
The walkout occurs one month after the deadly shooting in Parkland Florida with 17 casualties. Here in New York, Mayor Bill de Blasio and Gov. Andrew Cuomo are reported to have joined in at two schools (one in Brooklyn and one in Manhattan). According to Patch, Mayor Bill de Blasio has encouraged student participation in the walkouts, and Gov Andrew Cuomo can be seen below in solidarity with NYC students.
New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo joins students protesting for stricter gun laws in New York City as part of #NationalWalkoutDay. https://t.co/JuOWURifIL pic.twitter.com/4pcTTVA1zW
— ABC News (@ABC) March 14, 2018
The event's organizers, Empower (the youth division of the Women's March) claim nearly 3,000 walkouts are planned in schools around the country. In some local schools—such as one in Sayreville, New Jersey—students will reportedly face two days of suspension if they participate in the protest. The official event hashtag on Twitter can be followed at #ENOUGH (and more about the event can be found here).
Here is NYC Public School's official tweet about today's student walkout:
Participating in a walkout is an individual decision that we encourage families to discuss together. For anyone who participates in th

What's better than snuggling in bed with a good book? Well, bringing the story outdoors to one of NYC's most famous destinations is certainly one way to make the story come to life, wouldn't you say?
Bryant Park's Reading Room is set to return on April 2, and we're impatiently crossing boxes off the calendar. If you want to find a great read for yourself—and give your kiddos a taste of the NYC literary scene— the park's celebration of books is a perfect way to keep them engrossed. The beautiful grounds and a captivating tale are a recipe for a great afternoon (don't forget to throw in a sweet treat into the mix, too).
During park visits, youngsters can take a stroll through the small shelves located in between benches and search for a new must-read. A day in the park requires a book, after all. But of course, the Reading Room would not be complete without a list of fun activities, too.
Photograph: Courtesy Angelito Jusay Photography
First up on the calendar? Poetry. Kiddos are invited to recite their best stanzas for Poem in Your Pocket Day on Apr 26, during the city-wide event (beginning at 10:30am). For those who would prefer a work of fiction to funky rhyme schemes, kids' Saturday storytime will take place at noon from June 30—Aug 18. Youngsters will be treated to a cool story, a few magic tricks and even visits from their favorite literary characters (adults will be pretty envious of these awesome events).
There will also be storytime on Tuesdays at 10:30am f

Nothing hits the spot like a morning cup of coffee...without interruption. All parents know that their daily caffeine fix is never without a spoonful of chaos and a hint of whining when kiddos are involved.
Now, moms and dads can relax—and sip their beverages peacefully—all while kids let out their energy. Thanks to Park Slope's new family hangout, Good Day Play Café, everyone wins. The cafe and kids space hybrid will give parents the opportunity to snack and socialize while youngsters slide into a ball pit, create masterpieces in the LEGO station, try their skills at the angled climbing wall, run around the matted play area and explore the wonders of the magnetic wall. One hour for children Monday–Thursday is $12 and $13 for Fridays, Saturdays and holidays. The fee rises to $18 for two hours and $24 for three hours, Monday–Thursday and $20 and $26 on Fridays, Saturdays and holidays.
Photograph: Courtesy Good Day Cafe
Though the venue made its Brooklyn debut in late February, it's already hitting the ground running. According to Bklyner, Good Day Play Café is looking to expand its food offerings to include sandwiches (currently teas, coffees, juices and cookies are on the menu). Additionally, the space won't be limited to ordinary playtime. Children can opt to have their birthdays in this Park Slope playground paradise, as party packages have just been released. A variety of playtime is offered in each package, as well as additional treats such as pizza pies, juice b

What kid doesn't love a good hamburger? Don't miss an opportunity to get one for free in Grand Central. Gasoline Grill's Northern Food Hall-hosted pop-up will be handing out free organic burgers to 1000 people from March 16–18 from 2:30 and 5:30pm. Register at Tipster Eats to get your free ticket (you'll need one to claim your burger!) and get there early, since the even really is first-come, first-served.
Donations made at the event (not required) will support the Melting Pot Foundation and support the students of the Brownsville Community Culinary Center.
For more local dining opportunities, peep our guide to the best fun restaurants, great family restaurants and our favorite new brunch spots as well!
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